This series contributes to the growing discipline of practical theology by providing frontline scholarship on major topics in the field, with an emphasis on the emerging international discussion. Written by expert scholars known worldwide, these volumes will be of interest to pastors, students of theology, and those working in the allied fields of sociology, psychology, cultural studies, social work, and medicine.

According to the authors of this powerfully reasoned book, only a serious commitment to the Christian ideas of forgiveness and reconciliation can meet the needs of today's troubled world -- and the church must take the lead in this process. Partly a survey of existing attitudes and partly a how-to manual for developing an active "public" church, this book highlights the importance of forgiveness and reconciliation in both congregational life and society, and it traces out the intricacies of making them happen. After discussing common views of human nature and exploring the concepts of forgiveness and reconciliation as found in Scripture and church tradition, Robert Browning and Roy Reed put forth an innovative four-pronged approach integrating recent scientific studies of forgiveness with bold, theologically grounded ministry proposals.